NHRA Legend Announces Shock Exit After Three Decades In The Sport

Alan Reinhart, a legendary voice in the world of drag racing, has announced his departure from NHRA after more than thirty years of service.

This surprising news was shared by Reinhart himself during an appearance on Joe Castello's WFO Radio podcast, where he recapped his influential career.

Reinhart joined the NHRA announcer team back in 1991, marking the start of a journey that has taken him across the nation and into the hearts of racing fans everywhere. His departure is the end of an era for the sport.

Reinhart's journey into the world of drag racing began long before he took on the role of an announcer. His passion for the sport was ignited early on, attending NHRA events as a spectator, and even driving his modified 1970 Road Runner to the World Finals.

1 Feb 1996: Parachutes erupt from braking hot rods at the National Hot Rod Association Winternationals at Pomona Dragway in Pomono, California. Jamie Squire/Allsport via Getty Images

His move to the announcer's booth came after competing in drag races himself. When Tucson Dragway closed its doors, Reinhart's part-time announcing duties at Firebird Raceway in Phoenix evolved into a full-time role, thanks to an offer from track manager Joe Thaden.

Throughout his long and distinguished career, Reinhart's voice became synonymous with NHRA events, providing insightful commentary at over 750 national events.

His deep understanding of the sport and mechanical background allowed him to expertly explain complex racing details to fans, earning him respect and admiration within the racing community.

Reinhart's decision to step away from his role is tied to his contract, which came to an end in 2024 with no renewal for the following year. He clarified:

"It' been a hell of a ride for the last 30 years.

"The first time NHRA put me on a plane to go to a race was 1991. The first time I announced was 1989 on the national level was when I came out to my local track at Firebird. The last thirty-plus years have been an incredibly fun and wild ride. I've met a lot of people and got to do a lot of incredible things. But good things do come to an end, and this is one of them.

"After all the time, after all the travel, it is time for a change. I can't tell you exactly what I am going to do next. I have been speaking to a number of different people and some race tracks about staying involved in the sport, hopefully before Bradenton. I will have something locked down. Could be soon. I just don't have anything locked down yet."

Reinhart has hinted at remaining close to the sport, mentioning ongoing discussions with other racetracks and individuals in the racing community. Though he hasn't yet solidified plans, he is optimistic about potentially continuing his involvement in the sport, saying:

"After thirty-plus years of being the first guy there in the morning, I will not be part of the announcing team for the national event scene going forward. Whatever happens next, stay tuned.

"I'm a contractor. My contract ended at the end of 2024, and I had conversations with NHRA over the winter break, and it became clear we were not going to come to terms for 2025 going forward."

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